Controversial Lismore identity, Lismore City and Rous County Councillor Big Rob opened his legal business in the Star Court Arcade on Monday.

Mr Rob was admitted as a solicitor on 9 July 2021 and was issued a practising certificate on 19 September 2023.

When approached for comment, he jokingly told the Lismore App, "Fake news, no comment!" before elaborating on his new legal practice.

"It took a long time to get admitted (as a solicitor) due to complaints from locals. There was also a delay in being issued a practice certificate due to more complaints."

"The main delay was finding a supervisor to help me set up my own incorporated legal practice so I could stay in Lismore. Working for someone else would have just seen them hassled by those always complaining about me. The cancel culture is very strong in this area. They did not drive me out though."

Mr Rob's new office is in the Starcourt Arcade off Molesworth Street but is not quite ready to receive clients.

"The office is not set up yet. We're still waiting on some office furniture and other bits and pieces."

"I have been working from there (the office) but mostly still doing admin setup and other compliance stuff. A few clients are coming through already. I should be quite busy within 6 months. Also training on new legal practice management software and a few other things."

Big Rob also joked that his daily attire may need to change.

"Apparently, I have to 'become the lawyer' now by dressing better and behaving. Not sure what that means exactly but I will give it a go."

"I also find it amusing that so many have tried to stop me from practising by trying to destroy my reputation and otherwise exclude me. If they just let me go a few years ago, the Left would not consider me such a problem now as I would be very busy working as a lawyer."

Mr Rob has set up his own incorporated legal practice (ILP) since being issued his practising certificate with a very experienced ILP Principal in charge of the legal work for the first two years.

"My supervisor assists and supports me behind the scenes. He is happy to stay in the background where he can control and develop me as a lawyer."

"I am just looking to provide affordable and more accessible legal services in our area. My areas of interest are listed on the website but I am most interested in criminal, administrative and local government legal work."

"Grant application consulting also looks like it will be a major part of my business going forward. This will help many community groups and the wider community."

To find out more about the legal services that Big Rob provides, visit his website at www.summerlandlegal.com.au.